NBPA votes to remove Hunter as executive director

New York, NY (Sports Network) - The National Basketball Players Association
has unanimously voted to remove Billy Hunter as executive director on
Saturday.

A group of player representatives from across the league made the decision
following a review of the union released last month.

"Today was a day of change for our association and our union. We held a
meeting with the board of player representatives, with many different groups
of players represented," said NBPA executive committee president Derek
Fisher.

"The player reps and the general body have made their voice and their votes
heard. Today, a motion was raised, seconded, and passed unanimously, and we
will terminate the employment of Billy Hunter."

The report, which was commissioned by the association, found no evidence of
illegal activities by Hunter, but there were findings of questionable behavior
concerning Hunter's leadership and business practices.

"We want to make it clear that we are here to serve only the best interests of
the players," Fisher said. "No threats, no lies, no distractions will stop us
from serving our membership. We do not doubt this process will continue in an
ugly way...This is our union, and we have taken it back."

Hunter was criticized in the review, conducted by Paul, Weiss, Wharton &
Garrison LLP, for hiring family member and friends. There were also questions
raised concerning travel expenses and other miscellaneous charges.

Hunter, who has led the union since 1996, was placed on indefinite leave on
Feb. 1. Over his tenure, Hunter has guided the players through three
collective bargaining agreements.

Hunter is also credited with helping raise the average player salary to more
than $5 million dollars.